Science of Play

When I talk about the science of play, I first discuss the science of sleep. In my first job, my boss always bragged about how little sleep he needed. I think he believed he was like Thomas Edison, who was famous for getting only four hours of sleep under his desk. (There is some debate as to whether that was a public relations spin on being a tireless inventor.) If I were to tell a team now that I only needed four hours of sleep, I'm sure they would say, “Haven't you heard about sleep hygiene?”

Decades ago, the science of sleep was a relatively unexplored field. People had a general understanding that sleep was necessary for rest and rejuvenation, but the complexities of sleep cycles, dream patterns, and the impact of sleep on overall well-being were not fully understood. As research advanced and scientists delved deeper into the subject, the importance of sleep became increasingly recognized. We now understand the crucial role that sleep plays in cognitive function, memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and physical health. Most people I ask feel that they know science says sleep is important and that they want to get more sleep.

Similarly, the science of play is currently undergoing a similar transformation. While play has always been recognized as a natural activity for children, the deeper significance and benefits of play are now being more thoroughly explored. Researchers are uncovering the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical advantages of play across all ages. They are recognizing play as a fundamental aspect of human development, learning, creativity, problem-solving, and overall well-being.

Just as prioritizing quality sleep has become a vital part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, recognizing and valuing the power of play is essential for individuals and society as a whole. Through my efforts on the National Institute for Play board and my teaching at Stanford, I have come to understand that play is a catalyst for imagination, curiosity, social connections, resilience, and healthy development. It ignites creativity, fosters problem-solving skills, and cultivates meaningful experiences. By embracing and nurturing play in our lives, we unlock its transformative potential, fueling innovation, joy, and the growth of individuals and communities alike.